Renderings of the recently remodeled Econo Lodge Inn & Suites in downtown Red Deer. The building is now called Amethyst House and serves as an assisted-living facility run by Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Central Alberta.

By Sheldon Spackman

Grand Opening

CMHA to unveil new supportive living units next week

Jan 10, 2020 | 4:32 PM

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Central Alberta is set to host the Grand Opening of their new assisted living facility on the edge of downtown Red Deer.

On Jan. 17 at 2:00 p.m., officials will cut the ribbon at Amethyst House, located in the former Econo Lodge Inn and Suites at 4124 50 Avenue.

After moving out of the Buffalo Hotel at the end of November, the Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program run by CMHA now has a larger facility that’s able to accommodate 48 tenants – nine more than its former location at The Buffalo.

Described as Red Deer’s only PSH unit, Amethyst House is designed to provide stable housing to persons experiencing brief or chronic homelessness due to complex needs.

Officials say the program has supplied health, safety and guest management support to tenants for over 10 years. With a Housing First approach, the aim is to move those struggling to maintain housing due to mental illness and addictions, into a safe and supportive environment with support staff on-site, 24/7.

project will take one year

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